GAOMON S620 Pen Tablet review A Compact Graphics Tablet for Digital Artists

Description

Compact Design with Portability in Mind

The GAOMON S620 Pen Tablet strikes a perfect balance between being portable and functional. It features a 6.5 x 4-inch active working area, which I found to be a great size for both professionals who need precision and beginners exploring digital art. The compact form makes it lightweight and easy to carry, fitting comfortably in most laptop bags. I have taken it to coffee shops, meetings, and even on trips, and it has never felt like a burden. Even with this smaller size, there’s enough room for digital painting, animation design, and handwriting, making it versatile for various creative tasks.

The rubber feet underneath are a simple yet thoughtful touch. They prevent the tablet from slipping, even when I’m deep into a project and applying more pressure with the pen. This feature honestly seems minor until you use a tablet without it, and then you’ll really appreciate how stable the S620 feels.

Performance and Precision for Digital Artists

What stood out immediately during testing was its 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity. The strokes felt natural, and the transitions between light and heavy lines were seamless. I tried sketching intricate designs and painting with broad strokes, and the accuracy of the pen didn’t let me down. Whether you’re working in Photoshop, CorelPainter, or Krita, the 266 PPS report rate and 5080 LPI resolution ensure every line is smooth and responsive. This level of precision really elevates your workflow, especially for detailed work like inking or graphic design.

The battery-free passive pen is another boon. I didn’t have to worry about charging it, which is one less thing to keep track of. Its 10mm pen reading height added flexibility, especially when working with varied hand positions. I also loved the four customizable express keys on the device. I set them up for undo, zoom, and brush size adjustments, which significantly sped up my work. It’s a feature that you’ll grow to appreciate the more you use it.

Wide Compatibility and Android Support

The compatibility of the S620 is impressive. It works seamlessly with Windows 7/8/10+ and macOS 10.12+, and I tested it across multiple programs like Clip Studio Paint, Lightroom, and even PowerPoint for annotations. One of its standout features is Android device compatibility. I was able to connect it to my Android phone using the included OTG adapter, which opened up a whole new realm of possibilities, especially for quick sketches on the go. However, keep in mind that these adapters are only for Android devices and not for computers.

Using it for online teaching and meetings was another unexpected bonus. Whether signing documents in Word or explaining points in a Zoom meeting, the tablet performed beautifully. It’s a tool that feels equally useful for professionals and students alike.

Positives

• 8192 levels of pen pressure sensitivity for precise control.
• Battery-free pen eliminates the need for charging.
• Works with Windows, macOS, and Android devices.
• Lightweight and portable, perfect for working on the go.
• Customizable express keys that improve efficiency.
• Stable rubber feet enhance usability.

Areas for Improvement

• The active area may feel small for artists used to larger tablets.
• No wireless connection option, so you’re tied to a cable.
• The Android functionality can be limited depending on the app.
• Lack of a built-in stand means you’ll need to find a flat surface to use it comfortably.

Competing Products

When comparing the GAOMON S620 to competitors like the Wacom Intuos and XP-Pen Star G640, it holds its own in several areas. The pressure sensitivity and pen performance are on par with more expensive options, which is a huge plus. However, the Wacom Intuos offers wireless functionality, which some users might prefer for a cleaner workspace. On the other hand, the XP-Pen G640 is slightly cheaper, but it lacks the customizable express keys that make the S620 stand out.

If you’re an Android user, the S620’s compatibility with mobile devices gives it an edge over Wacom, which often requires additional adapters. However, artists who prefer a larger working area might lean toward Wacom’s larger models, even at a higher price point.

Bang for the Buck

For its price, the GAOMON S620 offers exceptional value. The combination of high-pressure sensitivity, customizable keys, and Android support makes it a versatile tool for beginners and professionals alike. While it doesn’t have every premium feature, the cost-to-performance ratio is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a compact, reliable tablet that doesn’t break the bank, this one is definitely worth considering.

Additional information